A DATE has been set for a public inquiry into controversial plans to build 230 homes at Lower Hopton.

The inquiry follows an appeal by developer Clough House, which wants to build a housing estate at Woodend Road.

More than two years ago the firm applied for permission to build 300 homes on the site but, after recommendations from the Environment Agency, dropped the number of houses to 230.

Kirklees Council planners still refused permission for the development last September. They objected because the development is on a flood plain.

Councillors also felt the development would create too much traffic and would put the safety of pedestrians and children attending a nearby school at risk.

Clough House appealed to the Planning Inspectorate in December and the public were given until January 9 to register their views.

Now, a date of June 29 has been set for the four-day public inquiry at Dewsbury Town Hall.

An inspector will hear arguments from the council and Clough House before making a decision on whether permission should be granted.